dear you,
because most people say 'July in July!' I'm going to make like Dolly Parton & just say it before anyone else does.
It's July! I'm July!
We got that out of the way!
I went to see my family for the first time since SiP started on Saturday, for a socially distant visit/walk at the Davis arboretum. It was 104 degrees, and I--having lived in Oakland for nearly fifteen years & wholly unaccustomed to the boiling heat in which I was raised-- felt it like a mikva. A kind of searing clean. I sweat & sweat & sweat & came home & slept for twelve hours.
In a time when being disassociated seems to be the norm, feeling vibrantly & uncomfortably in my body actually felt wonderful. Remembering that there is an outside world that responds to the sun/elements felt wonderful.
It's an everyday practice, isn't it? This whole 'being okay in the world right now' thing.
One thing I'm actively trying--& failing-- to do is to not use my own productivity as a coping mechanism. While we're all still busy as hell, I have to remind myself nearly daily that it's okay to step away from the screens in my life. That I deserve to feel the sun on my face. I deserve to do the things that remind me that I'm human, like sweat in my car to summer tunes. Like sleep in. Like lay on the floor & stare at the ceiling. Like do art.
Are you, too, remembering to do art? To be your fiercest creative self? I'm here for you however I can be. Not only do I have new offerings added weekly to my website, I also created a new author Instagram where I'll be posting updates, videos, readings, & more.
In addition to my personal offerings, PULP's new site has officially launched! Check it out to start reading pulpy content, stay abreast of our educational offerings, & keep us juiced.
So much love for you.
xo,
July
PS- haven't yet gotten your paws on a copy of "Via Negativa"? It's still hot off the presses, with even more glowing press (see what I did there?). A write-up in Coal Hill Review said this of the collection: ""Westhale’s willingness to be vulnerable as a poet allows the reader to find not reflections of their own experiences, but meaningful resonances that engender a powerful connection between Westhale and the reader.".
Order "Via Negativa" here.
Create your profile
Only paying subscribers can comment on this post
Check your email
For your security, we need to re-authenticate you.
Click the link we sent to , or click here to log in.